Intermediate Map Reading & Navigation Courses Lake District

This course helps you take the next step in your navigation skills. You’ll learn how to plan and follow more complex routes with confidence, and how to stay in control even when the terrain or visibility is challenging.

It does not matter if you have never used a compass before but you should have a good knowledge of map symbols and know how to plan and follow a simple route.

We run these courses in the southern Lake District, starting near Coniston.

There will be a maximum of four participants on the course which means you can be sure of plenty of personal tuition.

What You’ll Learn on the Intermediate Navigation Course

• Building a navigation plan:
  How to create a clear strategy for each stage of your walk, using both coarse navigation (big, easy-to-spot features) and fine navigation (precise, detailed map reading).

• Using ‘tick features’:
  How to spot key features along your route—such as walls, streams, bends, or junctions—to confirm you’re on the right path.

• Compass skills:
  How to take an accurate compass bearing and follow it, even when paths aren’t obvious.

• Reading the land:
  A deeper understanding of contour features so you can picture the shape of the ground and use it to guide your route.

• Accurate distance judging:
  How to measure distance on the map and match it to the real world using pacing and simple timing techniques.

• Route planning with safety in mind:
  How to plan a walk by considering weather forecasts, ground conditions, and current access laws.

• Finding your position:
  Easy, reliable techniques for relocating when you’re unsure exactly where you are.

• Checking directions with a compass:
  How to confirm the direction of paths, boundaries, or other line features.

• Grid references:
  How to give or find a precise 6-figure grid reference on the map.

• Emergency skills:
  What to do in a serious situation and how to contact Mountain Rescue.

Course Dates

Saturday 25th April 2026

Saturday 23rd May 2026

Saturday 20th June 2026

Saturday 25th July 2026

Saturday 22nd August 2026

Thursday 24th September 2026